Sydney furore did affect the team: Gilchrist

Adelaide: Wicket-keeper Adam Gilchrist said the public and media outcry after the Sydney Test against the home side was uncalled for and did affect his team's performance in the Perth Test which they lost by 72 runs.

Gilchrist said he was upset with the controversies that sorrounded the Test and overshadowed a victory which he rated among his top-five of all time.

''No one told us to walk out there and settle down and become friendly on the field, (but) maybe subconsciously guys we're a bit more aware of all the hysteria that was created, which I will happily go on the record and say, I think was way over the top,'' he was quoted as saying by 'The Age'.

He added the game should be remembered for Australia's record equalling 16th win and not for controversies it made.

''Did we start the race riots that happened in Cronulla? No.

We won a game of cricket,'' he said.

Australian vice-captain said the post-Sydney furore did affect the Aussies but made it clear that his team will come out with a more authoritative perforfancem in Adelaide.